Lionel Elie

The Life and Legacy of Lionel Elie

Lionel Elie was born on August 10, 1949, in Pineville, Louisiana, to the late Clarence Elie, Sr. and Thelma Griffin Elie. On Friday, August 28, 2026, Lionel peacefully departed this life at his home in Alexandria, Louisiana, at the age of 77.

Lionel was a genuinely happy person whose life reflected his deep love for family, hard work, generosity, and commitment to those around him. Family was at the center of his world, and he came from a very close-knit and family-oriented household. Of all the special bonds in his life, few compared to the one he shared with his twin sister, Ethel Jones. Lionel did not play when it came to his twin. Their connection was special, protective, and remained strong throughout his life.

For more than 50 years, Lionel shared his life with his beloved wife, the late Janice Tatum Elie. He was a faithful and devoted husband whose commitment to Janice was evident throughout their marriage. Their many years together were marked by companionship, love, loyalty, and devotion.

Lionel possessed a strong work ethic and dedicated 36 years of service to Huey P. Long Hospital, where he worked in Environmental Services. He took great pride in his work and carried that same sense of responsibility into every area of his life.

Anyone who knew Lionel knew that he believed in looking his best. He was a very neat dresser—always sharp, clean, and dressed to kill. Beige and brown were among his favorite colors, and whether he was going somewhere special or simply enjoying his day, Lionel believed in presenting himself well.

At home, Lionel enjoyed barbecuing, working in his yard, and keeping his surroundings looking their best. He lived at his Alexandria residence for 36 years and took tremendous pride in maintaining his property. His care extended beyond his own yard, as he would also maintain a neighboring lot simply because he wanted the area to look nice.

Lionel was also known as a very good neighbor. His generosity was not something he simply talked about—it was something he demonstrated. If he knew someone was hungry or in need, he would feed them. He had a giving spirit and willingly shared what he had with others.

Lionel leaves to cherish his memory his beloved twin sister, Ethel Jones of Lecompte, Louisiana; and his siblings and family members: Clarence Elie (Betty) of Alexandria, Louisiana; Ferguson Elie (Joan) of Dallas, Texas; James Elie of Houston, Texas; Blanche Reed of Mansfield, Texas; Charles Elie, Sr. of Alexandria, Louisiana; Jerry Elie (Beverly) of Gonzales, Louisiana; Amelia Gilmore of Alexandria, Louisiana; Donald Elie of Pineville, Louisiana; Gloria Elie of Dallas, Texas; Mary Bennett (Clifton) of Alexandria, Louisiana; Pauline Martin of Alexandria, Louisiana; Calvin Elie (Patricia) of Alexandria, Louisiana; Anthony Elie (Sylvia) of Alexandria, Louisiana; Alfreda Carter (David) of Alexandria, Louisiana; and Allen Gene Scott (Emmie) of Nome, Texas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, neighbors, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Janice Tatum Elie, and his parents, Clarence Elie, Sr. and Thelma Griffin Elie.

Lionel will be remembered for his joyful spirit, his sharp appearance, his devotion to his wife, the special love he had for his twin, his commitment to family, his pride in hard work, and his willingness to help and feed others. His life was one of consistency and care—whether caring for his family, his home, his neighbors, or simply making sure he stepped out looking his very best.

Celebration of Life

Public Viewing & Visitation
Friday, September 11, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Celebration of Life
Friday, September 11, 2026 | 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church
320 Daspit Street
Alexandria, Louisiana 71302

Interment
Garden of Memories Cemetery
Alexandria, Louisiana